OZ’s AFC West Predictions

2015 AFC West predictions

The picture says it all, I see the Chiefs winning the AFC West.  The analysis is below with some other thoughts.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

The Chiefs defense is a strong unit that potentially got stronger.  The addition of Marcus Peters gives them a play maker in the secondary and the return of Eric Berry will make quarterbacks think about just throwing passes up for their guys to go get.  The offense was terrible last year.  Jeremy Maclin will prove that wide receivers do not go to Kansas City to watch their careers die.  He will get in the end zone.  If Andy Reid can get it together with the offense, and Alex Smith continues to protect the ball, the Chiefs will trouble most teams

My second year guy – De’Anthony Thomas (WR)

Thomas was a play making machine in college.  If it all comes together (and the coaching staff work out how to use him) he could be a match winner.  He has the potential to be a touchdown threat as a rusher, receiver, and returner,

DENVER BRONCOS

The age of the roster will begin to catch them.  Peyton Manning, while cerebral, can’t do much to avoid the rush physically.  The loss of Julius Thomas will be an adjustment as I don’t believe he was a product of the offense and Manning.  The defense will keep them in games.  Ware, Miller, and Ray will put pressure on the quarterback, Malik Jackson is a beast on the inside, and Chris Harris is a dynamite cornerback who will mix it with most wide receivers.  While a talented roster, the end of season form of Peyton Manning last year was a worry.  The offensive line additions will need to acclimatize to the NFL very quickly or it could be a long year.

My second year guy – Bradley Roby (CB)

Roby was once touted as the best corner back in the draft.  He has the talent (and has flashed) and if he continues to develop, this secondary will make plays and score points off turnovers.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Are they going to Los Angeles?  The main focus should be this season.  The AFC West title race will be tight, and this team will make a run at it.  The offensive line will be the key for this team.  They have a nice stable of running backs – Gordon, Oliver, Woodhead; as well as a solid set of wide receivers.  While Antonio Gates will be missed early, there is enough talent to enjoy the extra catches in the offense.  The defense is an underrated unit and if they find their form early, they will keep the team in most games.  Division play will determine the chances the Chargers have at making the playoffs.

My second year guy – Jeremiah Attaochu (OLB)

This kid is a force off the edge.  If he can continue to develop pass rushing moves, he will enjoy single coverage opposite Melvin Ingram.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

It pains me to have the Raiders at the bottom of the division.  I am a firm believer in the team that they are building, I just feel at the moment inexperience will cause them growing pains.  The Michael Crabtree signing could be a blessing for Derek Carr as both Crabtree and Cooper are legitimate receiving threats.  The defense is coming together slowly.  While Khalil Mack and Justin Ellis are young studs, there is still more talent needed on this side of the ball.  The secondary is worrying but Charles Woodson, as a mentor, will ensure that the young defensive backs continue to develop.

My second year guy – Gabe Jackson (OG)

This kid is an absolute mauler.  I loved this draft pick (as well as the Mack and Carr picks).  If the line syncs well with the addition of Rodney Hudson, we will be seeing touchdown highlights with Gabe Jackson racking up the pancakes.

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